High radon common in Colorado homes

Radon gas poses a significant health risk to Colorado homeowners and renters, but many residents remain unaware of the dangers lurking beneath their feet. A recent report from Denver7 ABC News highlights the prevalence of radon in Colorado homes and explains what residents can do to protect themselves and their families.

 

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium in soil breaks down. As this invisible, odorless gas seeps into buildings through cracks and openings in foundations, it can accumulate to dangerous levels. "Radon can cause lung cancer. It's the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smokers," explained Justin Daniels, owner of Absolute Radon Safety in Denver. Daniels also serves as secretary of the Rocky Mountain Indoor Environment Association, which works to educate the public about indoor environmental hazards.

The good news is that testing for radon is relatively simple and affordable. Consumer testing kits are available at hardware stores and online retailers, typically costing between $10 and $50. For those who prefer professional testing, licensed experts like Absolute Radon Safety can conduct tests starting around $150. Experts recommend testing every home and retesting at least every two years, as radon levels can change over time due to shifts in soil composition and structural changes to buildings.

If testing reveals elevated radon levels, mitigation systems offer an effective solution. These systems work by venting air from beneath a home to the outdoors, typically through a pipe and fan that exhausts on the roof.

 

Since 2023, Colorado law has required disclosure of radon information to prospective home renters and buyers. Sales and lease paperwork must include a detailed brochure from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), and sellers must provide any existing test results. Additionally, tenants have the right to perform tests themselves, and landlords must make reasonable efforts to mitigate elevated radon levels within 180 days of being notified.

 

For Colorado residents concerned about radon in their homes, Absolute Radon Safety provides professional testing and mitigation services. With Justin Daniels' expertise and commitment to public safety, homeowners can trust that their radon concerns will be addressed properly and effectively.

 

For those seeking more information about radon, Daniels recommends contacting Kansas State University's radon hotline and website as a non-profit resource for impartial information. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is also an excellent resource for Colorado-specific radon questions.

 

Don't wait to protect your family from the dangers of radon exposure. Contact Absolute Radon Safety today to schedule a professional radon test and learn about mitigation options for your Colorado home. Remember: the only way to know if your home has elevated radon levels is to test.

 

(Denver 7 News article: https://www.denver7.com/news/state-news/high-radon-common-in-colorado-homes-testing-and-fixes-explained)